It's that magical time of year where we run around town, desperately trying to find gifts for impossible to buy for loved ones. While you probably have classics like the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar and Blue Genie Art Bazaar on your shopping docket, why not hit a few under-the-radar stops, too? In true Austin tradition, ditch the mall and forego those big box stores in favor of festive holiday markets with local flair.

German-Texan Christmas Market
When: December 2, 10 am-6 pm
Where: German Free School — 501 E. 10th St.

If we could spend Christmas anywhere, it would be in a cozy, snow-covered cottage in Bavaria, sipping cocoa and eating streusel. Since we're actually spending Christmas in Maryland this year, the German-Texan Christmas Market is the next best thing. Hosted at the German Free School, this market/school fundraiser features handcrafted and authentic German goods. Peruse old fashioned Advent calendars and Lebkuchen Schmidt gingerbread cookies while sipping mulled cider and snacking on stollen. Raffle prizes, live music, interactive storytelling, and a visit from St. Nikolaus are also on tap. Free admission.

Ellison's Holiday Market
When: December 3, 1 pm-7 pm
Where: The Ellison House —434 North Blanco St. Lockhart, Texas

Nothing gets us in the holiday spirit like time spent in a quaint small town. The Ellison House in Lockhart plays host to the ultimate curated shopping experience with goods from 20 local vendors. Check off everyone on your list while listening to Jason Chronis spin soul, jazz, and R&B records, or take part in workshops including a dye demonstration by Folk Fibers and a mistletoe bundle table by The Moonlight Manor. Complimentary coffee and alcoholic beverages.
Free admission, please register here.

Hyde Park Holiday Market
When: December 3 and December 10, 2 pm-6 pm
Where: Black Lagoon Art + Yoga — 4301 Guadalupe St.

Black Lagoon, the art gallery/yoga studio turned holiday pop-up, features the work of 10 local makers including Claire Sommers Buck, Moonfinder Jewelry, and Settle Ceramics. The art gallery will also be open and displaying work by Anissa Bryant's Art, Audrey Jahanian, Richard Casteel, and David Lujan. Go early for the 10 am restorative yoga class, one of our favorite ways to unwind.
Free admission.

Holiday Market Pop-Up at Space 24 Twenty
When: December 9, 11 am-4 pm
Where: Space 24 Twenty — 2420 Guadalupe St.

Since opening in 2016, the Urban Outfitters-owned Space 24 Twenty has shined their (very large) spotlight on local designers and artists — and the holiday pop-up is no different. All natural tinctures from Offerings Apothecary, custom terrariums from Slavonk & Hortus Terraria, and handmade macrame pieces from Clove + Couple are just a few of the finds available at this year's market. Free gift wrapping, dog adoptions, and drink specials will also be available.
Free admission.

Eastside Holiday Market
When: December 15, 6 pm-10 pm
Where: Revelry — 908 E. Fifth St.

East Austin event space Revelry showcases the best in small business during an evening of music, makers, and stick-poke tattoos. Fare from Garbo's Lobster Truck ATX, a tarot card reader, and unique gift options from dozens Austin artisans make this a one-of-a-kind holiday experience.
Free admission.

Origin Designer Holiday Market
When: December 16, 10 am-5 pm
Where: Intersection of Aldrich and McBee streets in the Mueller development

"Cool. But not too cool," is the tagline of this market, but we beg to differ. Forty of the coolest designers in Texas descend on the Browning Hangar in Mueller for this one day pop-up shop. Snag everything from bow ties to wall hangings while enjoying refreshments and live music.
Free admission.